This is New Mexico
      There is no typical New Mexico.  We have huge variations in growing conditions due to altitude, availability and quality of water,  and different soils.   If you have moved here from somewhere else, or have learned about gardening from magazines published in the east, please realize that gardening in NM plays by different rules.

Pick the Right Plant, Put it in the Right Spot
       Learn about the plants that are suited for NM"s harsh environment.  Many of the plants that you will find for sale at large chain stores are not suited for NM and many will do just fine.  Read the labels.   Look for "loves heat", "full sun", "drought tolerant".  Shy away from "Moist location", "rich soil", "acid loving", unless you plan to put it in a container. 

Observe the "Micro Environments" in your Yard
        In general, locations with morning sun and afternoon shade are cooler spots.  Filtered shade (under trees) are also cooler.  Full sun all day requires tough plants.  Even if the tag on the plant says full sun, it may not mean full New Mexico sun.  The plant also has to stand up to the heat.  Afternoon sun can be a hot spot, especially against a wall.  Read books, check out sites on the internet, observe plants in your neighborhood,  and make a list including the common name and scientific name and bring it with you when you shop for plants.

Learn how to water       
        Plants need a deep watering.  That means the water needs to reach down 6-8" for flowers, 12" or deeper for shrubs and trees.  Drip watering and soaker hoses are the most efficient methods.  A hose turned very low and left for an hour is another way to deep water.  Spraying with a hose for a few minutes will not work.  The top inch may be wet, but the water has not reached the roots.  Water, then take a trowel and see how deep the water penetrated the soil.
        Low Water does not mean No Water.  ALL  PLANTS NEED SUPPLEMENTAL WATER FOR THE FIRST YEAR (OR UNTIL ESTABLISHED).  It depends on the plant.  In general for flowers that are drought tolerant that means deep watering twice a week for the first month or so, once a week after.  Shrubs and trees will need once a week until established, then once every week or two.  Cactus and succulents may not need additional water after a year or two, but will probably appreciate a once a month deep watering.

Supplemental water is needed in the winter.  Roots continue to grow even if the plant above ground appears dormant.
                                     

Mulch  Mulch conserves water and cools the roots and is essential in NM.  There are many materials.  Wood chips from the local saw mill, straw, hay, bark, compost, or rocks.  When using uncomposted materials (wood chips or saw dust) do not mix into the  soil, just lay it on top.   Black landscaping fabric will control weeds while letting water through, but mulch needs to be put on top of the black material or the plants will cook.

Plant in the spring or fall.  This lets the plants become established before facing a NM summer.

Amend your soil.  Most soils are alkaline and low in organic matter.  Every gardener will benefit from a soil test.  Get the info at the County Extension Office.

Start small.  Take a small section of your yard and experiment.  See what works, what doesn't.  Look at your neighbors yards.  If a plant is doing well for the neighbor, it will probably do well for you.  Most gardeners love to talk gardening and enjoy sharing plants and information.